Dubai developer Nakheel’s Al Burj tower, proposed to be built as part of the Dubai Waterfront project, is expected to rival the Burj Dubai, which is being built to be the tallest tower in the world when completed.

Burj Dubai is being developed by another prominent Dubai builder Emaar Properties and construction is now under way.
Al Burj, initially planned to be developed on the Palm Jumeirah’s trunk, was later shifted to the Dubai Waterfront. Both are Nakheel’s projects. However, the final height of both towers remains a secret.
“At the moment, I can only say that Al Burj will be at least 700-m tall and one of the tallest towers in the world,” said Robert Lee, Nakheel’s director for development.
“Al Burj will be a mixed-use project with a combination of offices and residences. We are currently working on its design.” Construction officials are certain that it will be higher than Burj Dubai.
“I can’t imagine anyone spending so much money to raise it up to 700 m and not make it the tallest tower. It would be foolish of any developer not to stretch further to make it the tallest one in the world,” said an official of a large contracting company.
Meanwhile, Dubai Waterfront, the world’s largest waterfront development, has announced that its masterplan has been completed by the renowned architectural and planning firm Gruzen Samton.
The master plan, which was first visualised in January, has evolved following months of strategic planning and a meticulous preparation process. It includes a detailed plan of Phase One of Madinat Al Arab featuring development control and design regulations. Affection plans have also been provided for each investor detailing a map of their land plot and usage, its size and location, as well as height restrictions and built-up area specifications.
The exceptional sales of Phase One, which sold out in July for Dh13 billion ($3.54 billion) within just five days of its unveiling, highlights the confidence of investors in how well planned Dubai Waterfront is as a development, said a spokesman.
The project plans to be a world-class destination at the heart of the new Dubai. The master plan integrates Madinat Al Arab, a vibrant downtown surrounded by water and located on the main harbour at the heart of the project.
A particular emphasis has also been put on infrastructure through planned roads and other amenities that will meet the demands of the rising population. The destination, which is set to become a benchmark for integrated development, is strategically located for direct access to Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road, the Jebel Ali Free Zone, Abu Dhabi, the planned Jebel Ali Airport and has also taken into account the planned metro link-up, he said.
Madinat Al Arab will be anchored by Al Burj tower. The downtown will feature resorts, retail, commercial spaces, public spaces, a mix of residences and an integrated transport network including light rail and sophisticated road network.
James Wilson, chief executive officer, Nakheel and Dubai Waterfront, said: “Dubai Waterfront is an ambitious and modern project which is destined to become an international icon, ultimately serving as the gateway to the Arabian Canal.”www.gulfconstructionworldwide.com